Hi NoBuss, Thank you for your question regarding "how long will it take swelling from arm lift to subside completely?" Normally, it takes about 6 to 8 weeks for swelling to subside after an arm lift. Most experienced plastic surgeons who perform arm lifts initially have your arm wrapped in ACE compression garments for the first 2 to 3 weeks. Then, if your incision looks good, you are transitioned into a medical-grade arm lift garment from midforearm to above the shoulder. You should plan to wear this garment all the time except when you should shower. Lymphatic massage is encouraged 2 to 3 times a week for 3 weeks. Longer if the swelling continues. The garment helps to minimize swelling, flatten the scar, and provide physical and mental support to the healing arm. To get an accurate assessment of what exactly you arm surgery you need and the post-operative course, including swelling. Schedule a free virtual consultation with a plastic surgeon. Most plastic surgeons offer free virtual consultations. I hope that I have answered your question regarding "how long will it take swelling from an arm lift to subside completely". Good luck with your arm lift surgery! If you have any more questions regarding the arm lift, arm reduction, brachioplasty, or arm crease fat grafting, contact an experienced plastic surgeon. Since an arm lift can be a challenging surgery, please seek an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon with significant experience performing these types of lifts. Do your research. Make sure they have performed at least 100 arm lift procedures. Make sure they have the before-and-after pictures to prove it. Carefully examine their before-and-after pictures and check their reviews on RealSelf. Sincerely, Dr. Katzen, MD, MBA, FACS, FICS ( Plastic Surgeon, President of the American Society of Bariatric Plastic Surgeons, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, International College of Surgery, and American Board of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and RealSelf Hall of Fame.)